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You have many appliances in your home. With the experience you have using them, you know that none will last forever. There comes a time when the appliances breaks down. A water heater is not any different only that it could be the father of all other appliances. Without it, you forget of hot showers and hot water from the taps. Even with such importance, you can expect it will too follow suit and break down. It is important you be ready with the knowledge of what to do when that time comes.

Fix or replace?

This is a question many homeowners struggle to answer. They are simply not sure which options will work the best. The voice of reason must always to play when its about such decisions. When you are dealing with an old heater that probably has served beyond the estimated lifetime, then repairs might not be the best option. You could fear the cost of purchasing and installing a new heater. However, at this stage, the cost of repairs will add up and even exceed the cost of buying afresh. And then you will start regretting. One repair is never enough for an old heater. You will keep on calling your plumber until you are tired. And then you will make the right choice, when it is too late.
When you are dealing with a new heater, its a whole different story. Just check the warranty and if the duration is yet to end, repairs will apply. It could only be some parts that are worn out or require maintenance. Such parts can be found in the market and replaced by your plumber. With the warranty online, you are likely to pay less or nothing at all.

When do repairs apply?

You could be looking at the age of the heater and be very convinced that fixing the minor problems will ideal. However, there are certain heater parts that are vital. Some parts can easily be replaced. When its about the storage tank, you will definitely require a new heater. Any compromise on the tank means doom for the entire heater. Corrosion is often the biggest threat to heater tanks. It eats away the tank leaving a leaky shell. That said, it is important you know of the best ways to take care of your tank. Flushing the tank regularly is the best maintenance tip as it ensures sediments are removed hence minimizing corrosion.

Cost of energy matters

You know that repairing the heater is the best investment if the energy efficiency is not compromised. Otherwise, the heater will be of no benefit. In fact, it might shift to become a liability. New heaters especially manufactured using the modern technologies go an extra yard when it comes to energy efficiency. You get hot water on demand without putting pressure on the monthly bills. If you are still using the old models, you might need to replace them with the new models. Tankless heaters for example dont require to keep the tank water hot 24 hours a day. They only heat the water at a high rate only when there is demand.

Sometimes, the heater might not be problem. It could be the cold or hot water pipes that have developed leaks. Inspect them regularly too.